The Complete Buyers Guide to Asphalt Roof Shingles

When it comes to purchasing a new roof, there are more options than you can imagine. From slate to tile, metal to wood, the variety of roofing materials out there can make your head spin. Asphalt shingles remain the most popular choice for roofs throughout the Baltimore area. Even so, choosing to have a new roof installed from asphalt shingles may not be as easy as it seems.

3-Tab Shingles

Regular asphalt roof shingles, also known as 3-tab shingles, are flat and made up of three tabs that are all the same size. Typically, these roof shingles are made in a single layer and are designed to lay flat against the underlayment installed on an asphalt roof. They are also known for their uniformity in size, shape, and color that adds a sleek, sophisticated look to any home.

Laminated Shingles

Laminated, or architectural shingles are made up of multiple layers of asphalt that give the shingle the appearance of tiles. Easier to install than their 3-Tab counterparts, laminated shingles are preferred materials of builders for their durability and appearance. Rather than having a single color throughout the roof, this type of roofing shingle offers a variegated appearance that adds interest to your home.

Asphalt Shingles

What is the Best Option?

The simple answer? That depends on three important factors.

1. Cost

When it comes to simple cost, installing a 3-tab shingle is more challenging than installing laminated shingles because they are intended to appear seamless. That is why even though they are a less expensive shingle, roofing companies charge more to install them. In the end, installing a 3-tab shingle will cost the same as installing a laminated shingle.

2. Roof shingle repair

Since they are made up of multiple layers of asphalt, laminated shingles typically stand up to windstorms, wear and tear and debris better than 3-tab shingles. This means they do not need to be repaired or replaced as often. Laminated shingles are also easier to replace one at a time than 3-tab shingles that must be aligned properly before they can be fastened. Rather than aligning the right color shingle in the right place, any laminated shingle can be put in place of any other laminated shingle in the same color family.

An example of an asphalt shingle roof

3. Warranty

Typically, an architectural or laminated shingle comes with a 30-50 year warranty. Some are even guaranteed for life. 3-Tab shingles are only warrantied against wind damage for 20-30 years because of their thin construction. Of course, each brand of shingle will come with its own warranty, but Crown Remodeling will guarantee the labor of installation for life.

Not only will our experienced, qualified roofing professionals give you a thorough bid for your roofing repair or replacement, but they will also answer any questions you may have about the type of roofing material that is right for your home, office or commercial building.